Ready, set, go … 2 500 runners for Mandela Day Marathon

FINAL preparations have been made for the fifth Mandela Day Marathon event which starts tomorrow, with 2 551 runners expected to run the flagship 42.2km race on Sunday.

There are 220 international entrants from 30 different countries. First prize is R100 000. The theme of this year’s race is, “It always seems impossible … until it’s done,” one of Nelson Mandela’s inspirational quotes.

The marathon is the first official televised Comrades qualifier for the year.

According to a presentation on the event, the economic impact for the local economy was R32 million last year and is expected increase to about R35 million this year.

There will be 1 275 refreshment stations along the route, 450 marshals, 178 traffic and police officers on duty and 85 race organising committee members.

Over the two days, 1 810 temporary jobs will be created at about R200 a day.

Last year saw the introduction of the triathlon, the entrants for which increased from 245 then to 800 this year.

The year before, mountain biking and trail running were introduced.

Members of Mandela’s family are expected to be welcomed at King Shaka International Airport today by ANC provincial leaders and supporters.